If you’re looking for a piece of gym equipment for home that will deliver a hardcore workout in minimal time, then you can’t go wrong with a rowing machine. This piece of accessible gym equipment not only torches calories, placing you firmly in that fat burning zone, but it also delivers an excellent aerobic workout. The rowing machine is also a unique way of especially targeting and sculpting back muscles, glutes, and hamstrings. Utilizing the principles of a rowing crew on a physical boat but designed very much for indoors, no life jacket is required. They offer an excellent way of switching up your regular cardio routine, providing a welcome distraction to the treadmill or elliptical machine. They’re relatively compact, although many are quite long, so you will need to ensure that you have the right amount of dedicated space in your home workout area to station one. If you are looking for something that can provide a full-body workout, read on as we reveal our top product recommendations in the category of best rowing machine.

The Best Rowing Machine

1

Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine PM5

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We’re kicking things off with our Best Choice recommendation, which is the Concept 2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine. Widely accepted to be one of the best machines currently available on the market today, it’s a popular choice for both home workout spaces as well as commercial gyms. This model isn’t cheap, but it’s an excellent piece of equipment, with solid and sturdy engineering, which has been manufactured to last for many years to come. It’s constructed from high-quality aluminum and steel.

The Concept2 Model D provides a comprehensive cardiovascular, low impact workout and comes with an excellent PM5 onboard computer to keep you sufficiently motivated. There are plenty of program options to choose from, plus it also accurately tracks a wide range of exciting metrics. It can also be connected wirelessly via a compatible smartphone to provide feedback and results of your sessions. You can also control the intensity of your workout with an easy change of the damper. There are ten levels available, so plenty of scope for progression and regression. We’ve also selected this particular unit because we think you will appreciate how easy it is to assemble, move and store. It smoothly rolls into position on caster wheels and can be separated into two pieces for easy storage when not in use. The ergonomically designed handles can be pivoted to multiple positions, plus the footrests are adjustable to accommodate different heights. You may also like some of the best folding treadmills from our list, so be sure to check them out.

Key Features:

Onboard performance monitor to track progress

14-inch seat height with fully adjustable footrests

Caster wheels for easy mobility and separates in two for storage

Suitable for users weighing up to 500-pound

Multiple workout levels

Specification:

BrandConcept2

Model2712-US

Weight57.3 pounds

Pros

Easy to assemble

Easy to store and move

Low impact workout

Ergonomic and adjustable design

Commercial gym grade quality

Cons

Some complaints about missing parts

2

Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5515 Magnetic Rowing Machine

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Up next, we’re taking a look at our Best Value choice, which comes from Sunny Health & Fitness. Sunny proudly manufactures high-quality health and fitness products that are designed with maximum user efficiency in mind. This SF-RW5515 model is a magnetic style rowing machine that has recently been improved to deliver smoother and quieter operation. It features eight adjustable tension levels alongside a bright LDC monitor to track vital metrics, including time, count, and calories, which is hugely motivational. The levels can be adjusted with a simple twist of the resistance knob, increasing or decreasing accordingly.

The SF-RW5515 is comfortable to use with a large padded seat as well as ergonomic, non-slip grip handlebars for your comfort. There are also anti-slip foot pedals, which are large and sturdy, ensuring your feet remain securely in place throughout your workout session. It’s suitable for users with a maximum weight threshold of 250-pound. With a heavy-duty steel mainframe, it’s been manufactured to withstand the test of time, and the design also incorporates built-on transportation wheels for each maneuverability. For more amazing fitness gear, check out our selection of the best battle ropes.

Key Features:

LCD Monitor to track progress and key metrics

Large comfortable padded seat and anti-slip pedals

Built-in transportation wheels for easy mobility

Suitable for users weighing up to 250-pound

Adjustable workout levels

Specification:

BrandSunny Health & Fitness

ModelSF-RW5515

Weight59 pounds

Pros

Track progress

Vary intensity

Comfortable to use

Sturdy construction

Magnetic tension system

Full body exercise targets all muscle groups

Cons

Resistance level on the light side

3

Concept2 Model E Indoor Rowing Machine PM5

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We’re back again looking at what Concept2 has to offer with our Premium Pick. We’ve selected their E indoor model, which features a flywheel using for smooth and quiet operation. It’s another hugely popular choice and, like their D model, contains that PM5 onboard computer, which delivers accurate and comparable data every time you row.

With this model, the seat is pitched at a 20-inch height, and once again, there are adjustable footrests as well as ergonomic handles for user comfort. Still, it quickly separates into two pieces for more compact storage, and there are caster wheels to help you move the rowing machine into the optimum position. It’s constructed from welded steel and features a nickel-plated chain which requires less regular oiling. With a maximum user weight capacity of 500-pounds, this commercial-quality rowing machine is an excellent investment for a home or professional gym setup. Aesthetically, this is a premium-looking machine made from the highest quality, durable materials featuring a glossy powder-coated finish. Be sure to also check out our reviews of the best elliptical machines for more cool fitness equipment like this.

Key Features:

Onboard performance monitor to track progress

20-inch seat height with fully adjustable footrests

Caster wheels for easy mobility and separates in two for storage

Suitable for users weighing up to 500-pound

Multiple workout levels

Specification:

BrandConcept2

Model2716-1BX

Weight63.9 pounds

Pros

Easy to assemble

Easy to store and move

Low impact workout

Ergonomic and adjustable design

Commercial gym grade quality

Luxury, premium design

Cons

Some complaints about missing parts

4

Nordic Track RW900 Rower with iFit Membership

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If you find it hard to motivate yourself and you want to bring the gym environment into your own home, then you are going to love this latest rowing machine from fitness experts, Nordic Track. Featuring a 22-inch HD SMART touchscreen display that can be angled according to your needs, you get to experience 26 different coach controlled resistance levels. The Nordic Track iFit coach experience is your very own at-home interactive personal training buddy! Stream high-energy classes direct to your display for a motivating experience. You could go around the world or workout with an elite personal trainer.

In terms of the rowing machine itself, this piece of home gym equipment uses two different forms of resistance; manual air resistance control and 26 different adjustable resistance levels designed so that you can build up the intensity of your workouts as you get stronger and fitter. With silent operation, a comfortable ergonomic seat as well as soft-touch ergonomic handles, this machine is a joy to use. It also features oversized pedals and quick-adjusting straps. The innovative space-saving design also enables your Nordic Track to be folded away for compact and straightforward storage while front-mounted wheels ensure it’s easy to move your rower from one location to another.

Key Features:

Interactive Personal Training at home powered by iFit

22-inch HD Smart Touchscreen Display

Silent Magnetic Resistance

Two Resistance Modes

Compact space-saving design for easy storage

Specification:

BrandNordicTrack

Model Nordic Track RW900 Rower

Weight130.6 pounds

Pros

Easy to store and move

Innovative design

Adjustable console

Comfortable ergonomic design

Quiet and efficient operation

Cons

Some reported issues with customer service

5

Fitness Reality 1000 Plus Bluetooth Magnetic Rower

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From Fitness Reality, this Bluetooth Magnetic Rower offers a full body low impact workout with 14 different levels of resistance. The 1000 Plus comes complete with a large 3.5” LCD Display so that you can track distance, times, and calories burned as well as strokes per minute. It can also be connected via Bluetooth to the Smart Cloud Fitness all so that you can track and compare workouts and set different fitness goals.

Besides offering magnetic resistance, this unit also features a large and comfortable cushioned seat pad, as well as a patent-pending front foot stabilizer. This converts the rower into a full-body workout machine, enabling you to complete additional exercises including bicep curls, tricep extensions as well as bent-over rows. The sizeable pivoting foot pedals also provide a more extensive range of motion for a more challenging and intense workout. If you’re concerned about space, the Fitness Reality 1000 Plus rowing machine folds for convenient storage when not in use. It’s also fitted with transportation wheels for a smooth relocation. If you are looking for a comfortable and fully comprehensive piece of equipment, then look no further than the 1000 Plus. Set your goals, track your workouts, and so much more besides. Our guide to the best stepper machines features more quality workout equipment like this, so check them out.

Key Features:

Adjustable rower converts to offer a full-body workout

Bluetooth rower connects to My Cloud fitness app

14 levels of magnetic resistance

Large LCD console

Comfortable contoured seat and stabilizer foot pads

Specification:

BrandFitness Reality

Model2636

Weight63.6 pounds

Pros

Full body workout

Adjustable tension

Ergonomic and comfortable design

Smart cloud fitness

Folding design for easy storage

Cons

Difficult to assemble

6

Mr. Rudolf Water Rowing Machine

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This beautiful looking solid oak wood dual-rail rower has been designed to look and mimic the physical action of rowing on open water. From a design perspective, the aesthetics are beautiful, so much so, that whether you leave this machine out on display or prop it up on its end, Mr. Rudolf Water Rowing Machine still looks awe-inspiring. With transport wheels, you can quickly relocate your machine, storing it against a wall when not in use. If you are looking for something that replicates that real-life outdoor rowing experience, then you will love this Mr. Rudolf water rowing machine. Even down to the gentle whooshing of water, every detail counts.

It comes with an onboard workout monitor, although it is a little on the small side. Still, you can track all the usual statistics, including time, distance, 500m split time, strokes per minute, calories per hour as well as watts. This is all hugely motivational and should encourage you to put in that extra effort. It also provides a super smooth workout thanks to the thoughtful, ergonomic design. This machine features a contoured seat, active recoil system as well as height-adjustable footplates with secure straps to hold your feet comfortably in position. Our guide to the best vertical climbers features more great machines like this.

Key Features:

Uniquely designed to mimic a boat

Equipped with a workout monitor to track key metrics

Height adjustable footplates and ergonomic seat

Transportation wheels for easy storage

Maximum user capacity of 320 pounds

Specification:

BrandMr Rudolf

Pros

Solid oak construction

Convenient storage

Ergonomic design

Realistic rowing experience

Comfortable workout

Cons

Display monitor a little on the small side

7

Joroto Magnetic Rowing Machine with LCD Display

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If you are looking for a near-silent running rowing machine, then take a look at this Magnetic Model from Joroto. Offering no-touch magnetic resistance, it delivers smooth and comfortable, quiet operation. Featuring a solid aluminum flywheel, this is a well constructed and attractive looking machine with a digital display monitor as well as a phone holder built into the dieting. Double sensors ensure the accurate transmission of that date for results that will really keep you motivated. There are large anti-slip foot pedals as well as floor protectors. The pedals can be adjusted to fit different sized feet allowing more people to experience the fun of this workout. Your rowing machine also features built-in wheels so that it can be easily relocated and features a large and comfortable contoured cushioned seat with ergonomic foam handlebars.

In terms of levels of resistance, this Joroto comes with ten, which can be adjusted by twisting the resistance knob. It’s suitable for a weight capacity of up to 250 lbs, and the machine itself weighs 53 lbs. With the digital monitor, you can track time, count, and calories, monitoring your progress to keep yourself better motivated. For a comfortable, convenient, and adjustable workout, take a look at this Joroto MR35. You may also like to add some of the best free weight to your home gym collection, so check out our selection of the best ones on the market.

Key Features:

High-quality commercial-style design

Super quiet and smooth magnetic resistance

Dual caster wheels for natural movement

Unique compact standing storage design

Onboard digital monitor to track progress

Specification:

BrandJOROTO

Weight62 pounds

Pros

Quiet operation

Space-saving

Adjustable and ergonomic design

Digital display

Ten levels of magnetic resistance

Cons

Resistance level on the light side

8

Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW1205 Rowing Machine

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If you are short on space and looking for a rowing machine that is compact and space-saving, then take a look at this SF-RW1205 model from Sunny Health & Fitness. It provides all the benefits of a rowing workout from the comfort of your own home and offers 12 adjustable levels with hydraulic cylinder resistance. You can easily adjust the intensity of your workout according to how challenging you’d like it to be today.

The rowing machine itself benefits from having a small and compact space-saving design, but it is still reliably and durably constructed. It’s manufactured from a high-quality commercial-grade steel frame, and features cushioned non-slip handles as well as comfortable, contoured seat. The foot pedals are adjustable while the straps secure your feet firmly in place and ensure you remain balanced throughout. With an easy to read LCD monitor, you can also track and monitor motivational statistics, including time, count, and calories. When you’ve completed your latest workout, the compact design makes it easy to store away. For those of you who want to strengthen their grip, we have prepared our selection of the best grip trainers, so check them out.

Key Features:

Hydraulic system with 12 levels of resistance

Small and compact, space-saving design

Adjustable foot straps and pedals

Ergonomic design with comfortable padded seat and handles

Equipped with onboard digital monitor to track critical stats

Specification:

BrandSunny Health & Fitness

ModelSF-RW1205

Weight20.5 pounds

Pros

Compact design

Quiet operation

Adjustable resistance

Digital monitor

Comfortable

Cons

Small digital display

Basic functionality

9

Sunny Health & Fitness Water Rowing Machine

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We’re taking a look at another rowing machine from the popular brand Sunny Health & Fitness only this time it’s a water resistance machine that features powerful hydro blades. Water performance provides the ultimate smooth workout, and best replicates the experience of rowing on water. This unit, the Obsidian SF-RW5713, features non slip HD, sweat-resistant handlebars alongside a comfortable, molded, ergonomic seat for the ultimate rowing experience. The high profile designed seat is also much more convenient to get on and off without having to bend over uncomfortably.

Fitted with an onboard tracking, you can monitor interesting statistics such as total time, 500 m split, total strokes, and also ambient temperature, plus much more besides. It’s highly motivational and will spur you on to put in the extra challenging effort. It’s also fully compatible with ANT+ heart rate technology. This unit also benefits from being easy to store and is fitted with high-density non-marking rubber wheels so that you can easily transport your machine and store upright when not in use. It has a maximum overall user weight capacity of up to 300 lbs. For more must-have workout equipment, check out our guide to the best adjustable dumbbells.

10

Max Kare Water Resistance Rowing Machine

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Our next best rowing machine is from Max Kare and is a water resistance design, which is an excellent option for anyone looking to replicate that real-life rowing experience, but from the comfort and warmth of their home! With a maximum weight threshold of 264 lbs, Max Kare Water Resistance Rowing Machine is suitable for a wide range of different height and sized users and delivers a challenging and motivational workout.

There’ a large, easy to adjust LCD display that’s positioned for optimum visibility while you are working out. It can track strokes per minute, distances, and calories burned to help you stay motivated and on track of your fitness goals. This rowing machine has been designed with strong ergonomics in mind. It features adjustable footplates as well as a large cushioned seat for a comfortable rowing experience. It also has padded foam handles which offer a wide range of motion to optimize that upper body workout too. Stabilizers at the back help to keep the machine securely in place throughout your workout session while built-in transport wheels mean you can easily place your machine wherever it is most convenient. There’s also a water bottle holder incorporated into the design so that you can stay adequately hydrated. You may also be interested in some of the best assault bikes from our list, so check them out.

Key Features:

Designed to mimic the real stoke on water

Fully adjustable ergonomic design

Large LCD monitor to track results

Equipped with pulleys for each folding, moving and storage

Maximum weight threshold of 264 lbs

Specification:

BrandMaxKare

Pros

Water resistance

Realistic rowing experience

Sturdy design

Large LCD display

Stores upright when not in use

Cons

Display monitor could feature more functions

11

Stamina ATS Air Rower 1399

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From the popular fitness brand, Stamina, our next best rowing machine, is an example of an air resistance rower. It utilities the principles of dynamic air resistance to deliver the power, so the harder you work, the more intense your workout becomes. Ultimately, you get out what you put in. Row harder for more resistance or drop right back to keep it slow and steady.

This Stamina 1399 model is also fitted with an LCD display so that you can track and monitor your progress. During your workout, you can manage your speed, distance, time, and calories to keep you fully motivated and powering through your performance. The display is large and easy to view. The rower itself is also comfortable to use with a padded sliding seat alongside padded non-slip grip handles. There are also secure pivoting footplates which provide a good range of movements as well as being adjustable in design too. With built-in wheels and a fully folding frame, moving and storing your Stamina 1399 Air Rower is a breeze. Our guide to the best squat racks features more quality workout machines like this, so check them out.

Key Features:

Dynamic air resistance

Multi-function workout monitor

Folding design with built-in wheels for storage

Maximum weight capacity of 250 lbs

Padded sliding seat and padded handle grips

Specification:

BrandStamina

Model35-1399

Weight54 pounds

Pros

Compact design

Dynamic adjustable resistance

Quiet operation

LCD Digital monitor

Comfortable

Easy to assemble

Cons

Short life expectancy

12

Circuit Fitness Deluxe Foldable Magnetic Rowing Machine

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This foldable design from Circuit Fitness is an excellent choice if you are searching or a rowing machine that is hard wearing and durably constructed. It’s made from heavy-duty still and aluminum and has been manufactured to withstand repeated use. It provides variable resistance utilizing a magnetic system that can offer multiple intensities for a varied and challenging workout. It also provides a comfortable training session, too, thanks to a durable injection-molded seat that delivers plenty of comfort and support. This Deluxe Model Rowing Machine from Circuit Fitness also features foam covered handlebars as well as adjustable foot straps for security and stability.

There’s a digital screen display to keep you motivated, tracking, and displaying essential metrics such as speed, distance, time, and calories burned. You can also keep track of the ambient temperature too. The intelligent folding design also allows the unit to be conveniently and quickly stored away when not in use. If you’re on the hunt for a multi-functional and reliable piece of gym equipment for your home set up, then this is an excellent recommendation. Get ready to tone and tighten your body while working on your cardiovascular fitness thanks to this magnetic rowing machine from Circuit Fitness. You may also like some of the best ab machines, so check them out and start working on that six-pack.

Key Features:

Heavy-duty steel and aluminum construction

Variable manual magnetic resistance

Folding design with built-in wheels for storage

Foam covered handlebars and adjustable foot straps

Multifunctional motivational workout monitor

Specification:

BrandCircuit Fitness

ModelAMZ-986RW

Weight90 pounds

Pros

Durable

Variable resistance

Comfortable to operate

Intelligent design

Digital display screen

Adjustable features

Cons

None

13

Sunny Health & Fitness Squat Assist Row N Ride Trainer

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For today’s final product recommendation, we’ve picked out something slightly different from the traditional looking rowing machine we’ve so far taken a look at. This model from Sunny Health & Fitness is what’s known as a Row N Ride design that you sit on rather like an exercise bike as opposed to a rowing machine. It can be adjusted to three different inclines to provide a more intense squat position. Just angle that saddle to either 30, 60, or 90 degrees according to the depth of squat and range you want to achieve.

The versatile handlebars are also fully adjustable and can be placed into multiple hand positions so that you can really target all the muscles of the back, chest, and arms. You can adjust the machine according to your body length by changing the set up of the handle and saddle distance. With this Row N Rider, you will develop strength and speed while achieving a leaner physique. Adjustable resistance bands further add to the intensity of this workout. With the onboard digital monitor, you can keep track of time, count as well as calories. If you’re looking to perfect and hone your squat technique, then this is the perfect piece of equipment to add to your home gym.

Key Features:

Three adjustable resistance bands

Each band delivers approximately 22 lbs of resistance

Handle and saddle distance fully adjustable

Saddle angle can be controlled to a 30,60,90-degree squat position

Maximum weight capacity of 220 lbs

Specification:

BrandSunny Health & Fitness

ModelNO. 077

Weight24.5 pounds

Pros

Variable resistance levels

Adjustable design

Compact & sturdy

LCD digital monitor

Comfortable to operate

Cons

Can be awkward to use

Rowing Machine Buying Guide & FAQ

Congratulations on deciding to invest in a new rowing machine. Before you do go ahead and make that final purchase, we’re recommending a few essential features that you first consider. These should help you in selecting a model that will help you achieve those all-important health and fitness goals.

Features To Look For In Rowing Machines

Display - Even an elementary display can be highly motivational, allowing you to track your workouts and process. Most machines should come with some sort of built-in display, the level of sophistication differing according to how much you’re looking to invest. Even the least inexpensive models are likely to offer vital metrics such as calories burned, workout time, distance, and strokes per minute, with heart rate also being another useful statistic to track.

Folding Design & Wheels - If space is at a premium and you don’t want to have your rowing machine out on display permanently, then it’s an excellent idea to look for a folding design. Rowing machines can be quite bulky and cumbersome, so always check what size space you have available to make sure you select a rowing machine with the appropriate dimensions. Transportation wheels or castors to easily move your rowing machine from one location to another are also worth considering.

Rail Length and Weight Capacity - If you are particularly tall and have long legs, then check the length of the seat rail to make sure it’s long enough to offer your long levers the full range of motion.

Weight capacity is also worth noting. If you’re purchasing a rowing machine for more than just yourself to use, check that it has a weight capacity threshold that will accommodate the people who are going to be using it. At the cheaper end of the market, hydraulic rowers are unlikely to offer as high weight capacity as an air or water rower can.

Heart Rate Monitor Compatibility - Many of today’s latest and best rowing machines come with built-in pulse monitoring. Still, in case the model that you’re purchasing doesn’t, you might want to ensure instead that it’s compatible with any heart rate monitor you’re using. Tracking your heart rate while working out provides an excellent indication of how intense you’re workout is.

Built-In Workouts - Some of the higher-end, professional-style models come with a wide range of built-in programs that can be highly motivational. If you are looking to enjoy a challenging and exciting workout that you won’t quickly get bored of, then we highly recommend you consider investing in a rowing machine that offers diverse built-in programs.

Types Of Rowing Machines

There are several different types of rowing machines currently available, and they are distinguished by their resistance type. You have four main options; air, water, magnetic, or hydraulic. They all have their distinct advantages and disadvantages. Let’s quickly take a look at them for you now.

Air - These are perhaps the most popular type and generate their resistance through a large flywheel on the front. Some models will also feature a knob or notch on the side that allows you to adjust the resistance level to make the rowing action more challenging or reduce the intensity.

The mechanics work in such a way that the harder and faster you row, the more resistance is generated. As your effort intensifies, so too does your workout putting you ultimately in control of how much you get out of a rowing session.

Perhaps the key drawback of an air resistance rower is that they can be quite noisy, but that flywheel does also produce a gentle cooling breeze.

Water - Designed to mimic the experience of actually rowing, these machines are typically more expensive and geared towards the professional end of the market. They come fitted with a large water-filled tank that creates the resistance as you row. Just like air resistance models, the harder you work, the higher the resistance produced.

They tend to be overall quieter than their air resistance counterparts, with many individuals finding the whooshing sound of the water therapeutic and very relaxing. The downside is that because they need to be filled with water, they can be cumbersome and difficult to move.

Magnetic - Magnetic types are a popular choice for home use because they offer quiet running operation and tend to be more compact by design. Many also feature a folding design, which makes them ideal for storage, an excellent choice if you have a smaller workout space.

They utilize magnets and a flywheel to adjust the resistance, generally with an adjustable slider or even a digital console to increase or decrease the overall level. The rowing experience is a smooth and comfortable one.

Hydraulic - Hydraulic rowing machines tend to be the most inexpensive and compact overall. If you are short of space, then this design will probably suit you best as they tend to be the most portable, so easier to move around. They use pistons to generate resistance, so they aren’t as smooth or as powerful as some of the other options. If you are looking for an inexpensive and compact entry machine though, hydraulic might be the best way for you to go.